Russia’s Special Envoy Praises Taliban’s Efforts Against Terrorism and Drug Trafficking

Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s special envoy to Afghanistan, commended the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) on Friday for its efforts to tackle terrorism and drug trafficking. His remarks came a day after Russia officially recognized the IEA, becoming the first major global power to formalize diplomatic relations with the Taliban-led government.

Speaking to RT, Kabulov emphasized that the recognition was driven by the need for full-scale political engagement and legally grounded cooperation between Moscow and Kabul. He noted that economic cooperation with Afghanistan had already begun but required formal recognition to make it “legally complete.”

“Now it’s time for our political interaction in full-fledged terms and conditions,” Kabulov stated.

IEA’s Transformation and Economic Dialogue
Kabulov, who previously served as Russia’s ambassador to Kabul, highlighted the IEA’s transformation since first taking power in the 1990s. “This time, Taliban (IEA) came into power as a national [movement],” he said, adding that the group is now focused on domestic interests.

In April, Russia’s Supreme Court removed the IEA from its list of terrorist organizations, paving the way for formal diplomatic engagement. Kabulov also pointed to growing economic dialogue, noting the IEA’s participation in Russian forums and discussions around investment and resource development.